“Heaven” – Late Bloomer. I’ve been meaning to share this song since July. It’s a big, crunchy, aggressive song that would have fit right into alternative rock radio in 1996.
“Apocalypse Now (& Later)” – Laura Jane Grace & the Devouring Mothers. LJG’s announcement that she was transgendered and would be transitioning tore her previous band, Against Me!, apart. A few members of the band could not deal with her changes. She has been performing solo for the last several years, but this new band, which features two former members of Against Me!, seems to be her new home. This song has a sense of warmth and peace, which I hope is a sign that her life is more settled than it has been since she first came out.
“In a River” – Rostam. A beautiful song from the former Vampire Weekend member.
“Comeback Kid” – Sharon Van Etten. After four years away – a period in which she earned a degree in psychology and became a mother – SVE is back with this song. It is a complete kick in the ass, as it is bold and fun and unlike anything she’s ever done before.